Residents and traders in Bolgatanga on Saturday July 18, 2026 staged a peaceful demonstration through the principal streets of the Upper East Regional capital Bolgatanga, calling on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to retain the Special Operations Team, popularly known as the “Black Maria” team, in the Region

The demonstrators, who carried placards with various inscriptions, said the continued presence of the Special Operations Team was essential to maintaining law and order and enhancing security in Bolgatanga and its surrounding communities

The protesters marched through the town before converging at the Regional Coordinating Council, where they presented a petition addressed to the Inspector-General of Police.

The petition was received on behalf of the Upper East Regional Minister by the Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Roland Atanga Ayoo

Speaking on behalf of the demonstrators, the petitioners appealed to the IGP to reconsider any decision to withdraw the Special Operations Team from Region

They argued that the team’s operations have contributed significantly to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents, traders, and visitors.

Receiving the petition, Mr. Roland Atanga Ayoo assured the demonstrators that the concerns raised would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities for consideration

He commended the protesters for conducting themselves peacefully throughout the demonstration and urged residents to continue supporting the security agencies in maintaining peace and security in the municipality

The demonstration ended peacefully without any reported incidents

Source – gbcuraonline.com